US7266390B2 - Network interface cassette adapter and method - Google Patents

Abstract

A network interface cassette for coupling signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player. The network interface cassette includes an enclosure that is conformed to the cassette tape form factor. It contains a transceiver that converts base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network. It also contains a network controller that is coupled to communicate the base band signals with the transceiver. The network controller converts digital audio signals to and from the base band signals. There is an audio processor that converts the digital audio signals to analog audio signals. A coupling means converts the analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals. The coupling means is aligned to couple the magnetic audio signals to the tape head. A power supply with batteries and a generator driven from the cassette player capstan are provided. A wireless user interface adapter is provided to couple microphone and audio signals to the apparatus. Plural communications requests are processed, and include a priority scheme to manage resource contention.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates electronic audio transmission and reproduction. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for coupling audio content through a wireless network and to a cassette tape player for acoustic reproduction.

2. Description of the Related Art

In the past, users obtained audio content either from receipt of commercial broadcast services or by purchasing prerecorded media. Music and spoken audio content have been continually transmitted by commercial AM and FM broadcast radio stations for many years. Vinyl records were once the dominant form of prerecorded media. Later, 8-track cartridges, cassette tapes, and compact discs became popular forms of distribution for prerecorded audio content media. Mobility during receipt and playback of audio content has always been an important and desirable feature. For example, automotive AM/FM-cassette and CD players have become a standard accessory in modern cars and trucks. Portable radio and cassette players are in common use today as well. In fact, there is a huge installed base of radio receivers and prerecorded media players, such as cassette tape players, in the market today. Virtually all consumers of prerecorded audio content possess some form of high fidelity stereo system.

Recently developed technologies are changing the way that users receive and playback audio content. These technologies include the ubiquitous deployment of personal computing devices, Internet networking, and local area wireless data networks. Today, users are able to download digital audio files from service providers over the Internet and store them in a personal computing device. Systems consisting of a personal computing device and a connected amplifier with loud speakers can then reproduce the digital audio files directly or through interconnection to a conventional high fidelity stereo system. Wire or fiber optic cables have typically interconnected the components of such systems. Portable devices are also available, which can receive compressed audio content data files and reproduce them at a later time. An example of such a device is a portable MP3 audio player, which typically reproduces audio files through a pair of headphones or earphones.

Modern technologies have also enabled other sources for audio content. Such devices include direct broadcast satellite radio receivers, wireless and cellular telephones, GPS receivers, weather radios, digital cameras, video cameras, digital audio recorders, and even personal computing devices, such as personal digital assistants (“PDA”) and laptop or palm-top computers. All of these devices have relied upon cables for interconnection and transfer of audio content. However, wireless technologies are now available that enable interconnection of various audio content devices without the use of physical wires and cables.

Wireless interconnectivity is available in a number of configurations. Simple point-to-point systems have been available for some time. Recently, standardized systems and protocols have been developed that enable multiple devices to wirelessly communicate within a local area network (“LAN”). An example of this is the Bluetooth protocol that forms wireless “piconets” designed specifically to replace the interconnecting wires and cables among several portable devices. Audio and data signals can be transmitted within such wireless LAN's. Another wireless connectively solution is the wireless Ethernet standard promulgated by the IEEE as the IEEE 802.11 et. seq. standard, known to those skilled in the art. This standard defines a wireless extension of the Internet using the TCP/IP protocol standard in a 2.4 GHz (ISM band), 5.8 GHz band and other wireless Ethernet environments. The implementation of such a system is colloquially known as an Internet Wi-Fi Hotspot. The IEEE has promulgated other wireless TCP/IP network solutions. Other wireless connectivity standards are known and even more will certainly be developed as the demand for wireless connectivity continues to grow.

With respect to the acoustic reproduction of audio content, each of the aforementioned devices, whether connected by cable or wirelessly, requires an electro-mechanical transducer to create sound. Headphones and earphones are frequently used, but many users prefer audio reproduction through loudspeakers. When there is a plurality of audio content sources, the implementation of a plurality of amplifier and loudspeaker systems quickly becomes impractical. In fact, even a single dedicated amplified loudspeaker for one of these devices is cumulative to existing amplifier and loudspeaker systems that most users already possess, such as the aforementioned portable stereo, the automotive stereo, and the home high-fidelity stereo system. Thus, there is a need in the art for a system method for connecting wirelessly coupled audio content delivery terminal devices to existing high-fidelity stereo systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The need in the art is addressed by the apparatus and methods of the present invention. A network interface cassette for coupling signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player is taught. The network interface cassette includes an enclosure that is conformed to the cassette tape form factor. It contains a transceiver that converts base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network. It also contains a network controller that is coupled to communicate the base band signals with the transceiver. The network controller converts digital audio signals to and from the base band signals. There is an audio processor that converts the digital audio signals to analog audio signals. A coupling means converts the analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals. The coupling means is aligned to couple the magnetic audio signals to the tape head.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, the network interface cassette also includes a power supply disposed within the enclosure that provides electric power to the transceiver, the network controller, and the audio processor. In a refinement, the power supply further includes a switch positioned for actuation when the enclosure is inserted into the tape player. Upon actuation, the switch couples the electrical power. In one embodiment, the cassette player includes a rotating capstan and a pinch roller, and the power supply further includes a generator for producing the electric power. The generator is rotatably coupled to the capstan shaft so that it derives mechanical power therefrom. The generator may be rotatably coupled to the capstan by a tape engaged between the capstan and the pinch roller. The generator may be rotatably coupled to the capstan by a means for multiplying rotational speed.

In another specific embodiment, the network interface cassette is adapted to provide an ear and mouth signal interface for a wireless network enabled cellular telephone. In this embodiment, a microphone input is coupled to the audio processor, and is used for inputting microphone signals. The audio processor converts the microphone signals to digital microphone signals. The network controller converts the digital microphone signals to base band wireless network signals for coupling to, and transmission from, the transceiver and into the wireless network. This arrangement enables ear and mouth signal communications with the cellular telephone through utilization of the microphone input and the cassette tape player audio playback capabilities. In another embodiment, the network interface cassette also includes a microphone coupled to the microphone input.

In a refinement to the invention, the network interface cassette further includes an auxiliary audio input coupled to the audio processor, which is for receiving auxiliary audio signals. The audio processor couples the auxiliary audio signals to the coupling means. In another embodiment, the network interface cassette further includes an audio output that receives the analog audio signals from the audio processor. This arrangement enables the connection of an external device.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention, the network interface cassette includes an additional module for enabling a wireless user interface connection. The module includes a module transceiver, which converts base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network, and a module network controller, which communicates the base band signals with the module transceiver. The module transceiver converts digital audio signals to and from the base band signals. The module also includes a module audio processor that converts the digital audio signals to analog audio signals, and a module interface that couples analog audio signals with the module audio processor. In operation, the module network controller establishes audio connections with the cassette network controller through the module transceiver and the cassette transceiver, which occurs according to a wireless network protocol.

In a refinement to the prior embodiment, the module interface includes a module microphone input that receives analog microphone signals. It may also include a module microphone coupled to the module microphone input. In another refinement to the invention, the module interface has a module audio output that receives the analog audio signals from the audio processor, thereby enabling the connection of an external device. In another embodiment of the module, it includes a module power supply that provides electric power to the module transceiver, the module network controller, and the module audio processor. In an improved version of the module, it includes a photovoltaic cell coupled to the module power supply.

The present invention also teaches a method of reproducing audio signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player. The method includes the steps of converting base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network, then converting digital audio signals to and from the base band signals. The method further includes the steps of converting the digital audio signals to analog audio signals, and converting the analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals. Finally, the step of coupling the magnetic audio signals to the tape head by inserting an enclosure conformed to the cassette tape form factor into the cassette tape player, thereby enabling the reproduction of audio signals by the cassette tape player.

In a specific embodiment of the method, the converting steps are accomplished by semiconductor devices, which are powered by a power supply disposed within the enclosure. An improvement to the method includes the steps of actuating a switch upon inserting the enclosure into the cassette tape player, thereby coupling the power supply to the semiconductor devices. In another embodiment, the cassette player includes a rotating capstan and a pinch roller, and the method includes the further steps of coupling mechanical power from the capstan to the generator, and generating electric power with that mechanical power. The step of rotatably coupling to the capstan with a tape engaged between the capstan and the pinch roller may be added. An improvement adds the step of multiplying the rotational speed of the capstan to increase the generator speed.

A specific embodiment of the foregoing method is adapted to provide ear and mouth telephone signals for a wireless network enabled cellular telephone. This embodiment includes the steps of inputting analog microphone signals and converting them to digital microphone signals. Then, converting the digital microphone signals to base band wireless network signals for coupling to, and transmission from, the wireless network. In an improvement, the step of coupling auxiliary audio signals from an auxiliary audio input, prior to the converting the analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals step, is added. Another improvement further includes the step of establishing a first streaming audio connection from an external wireless network device to the tape head, thereby enabling acoustic audio reproduction through the cassette tape player. In a refinement of the improvement, the step of establishing a second streaming audio connection from a microphone to the external wireless network device is added.

In another specific embodiment of the method, priority control is added. This includes the steps of establishing a first streaming audio connection, having a first priority assigned thereto, from an external wireless network device to the tape head. Then, receiving a request for a second streaming audio connection, having a second priority assigned thereto, and preempting the first streaming audio connection if the second priority is higher than the first priority. In a further improvement to the priority control method, the steps of establishing a second streaming audio connection according to the request, and reverting to the first streaming audio connection when the second streaming audio connection is terminated are added.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a system diagram of an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of a network interface cassette adapter according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a wireless user interface adapter according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a network interface cassette adapter according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of a wireless user interface adapter according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a functional diagram of a cassette tape player to a wireless network Bluetooth connection according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of a cassette tape player to a wireless user interface Bluetooth connection according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a process flow diagram according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a priority table according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Illustrative embodiments and exemplary applications will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings to disclose the advantageous teachings of the present invention.

While the present invention is described herein with reference to illustrative embodiments for particular applications, it should be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Those having ordinary skill in the art and access to the teachings provided herein will recognize additional modifications, applications, and embodiments within the scope hereof and additional fields in which the present invention would be of significant utility.

The wireless network interface cassette adapter and method of the present invention bridges the gap between wireless audio content delivery terminal devices of varying types and existing high fidelity audio playback systems. The existence of wireless local area network connectivity and standardized magnetic tape playback systems are advantageously leveraged to provide users with a low cost, convenient, and flexible audio reproduction system. The teachings of the present invention are applicable to any wireless local area network standard, whether presently defined and deployed, or those that may be later developed. In specific embodiments, the Bluetooth piconet personal area network (“PAN”) and Wi-Fi wireless local area network (“WLAN”), as defined by IEEE standard 802.11 et. seq. and its progeny, are contemplated. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the teachings of the present invention are applicable and useful for any digital wireless system capable of wirelessly coupling audio content. This is true whether the content comprises discrete audio files, compressed audio files, streaming, pseudo real-time, delivery systems, or voice data in the form of text-to-speech.

Reference is directed toFIG. 1, which is a system diagram of an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Bluetooth personal area networks (“PAN”)12 or WiFi wireless local area networks (“WLAN”)12 exists by virtue of the presence of two or more compliant devices, as is understood by those skilled in the art. Collectively, these will be referred to as wireless locals area networks (“WLAN”) herein. A variety of compliant terminal devices are also known. IfFIG. 1, there is illustrated a direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”)radio receiver36, which is compliant with theWLAN12. DBS receivers obtain audio content from one or more orbitingsatellites38. In the case of a WLANcompliant DBS receiver36, thedevice36 includes controller and transceiver hardware and software that enable thereceiver36 to couple digital audio content within theWLAN12. In a similar vein, personal digital assistants (“PDA”)34 are known that are WLAN compliant, and are able to send and receive digital audio content within theWLAN12. Of course, laptop and palm-toppersonal computing devices32 are also known to beWLAN12 compliant. Modern digital audio file players, such as MP3compliant players30 are known to beWLAN12 enabled as well. Another WLAN compliant device is a global positional system (“GPS”)receiver26, which receives time and location information from a constellation of low-earth orbiting satellites28. Such receivers are known to output audio content, and can do so within aWLAN12.

Current cellular and wireless telephones (collectively “cellular telephones”), including third generation technology (“G3”)cellular telephones22 that are known to be WLAN complaint. In addition to communicating over acellular telephone networks24, suchcellular telephones22 include a controller and transceiver that enable communications within theWLAN12. The transfer of audio content is duplex in such cellular telephones so that both ear and mouth signals can be simultaneously transferred. With such operation, the microphone and earphone interface for the cellular telephone can be provided over theWLAN12. For example, a wireless headset could be provided for thecellular telephone22, which couples the ear and mouth signals through theWLAN12.

FIG. 1 illustrates the variety of audio content terminal devices that are WLAN enabled, and that can send and receive audio content through a WLAN. The apparatus in an illustrative embodiment of the present invention is the network interface cassette adapter (“NIC”)2. TheNIC2 conforms to the physical size and dimensions of a cassette tape cartridge for the intendedcassette tape player4, and therefore, can be inserted into thecassette tape player4. Stated at a systems functionality level, theNIC2 couples radio frequency signals with theWLAN12, which include both WLAN protocol signals and encoded audio content, and converts a portion of these signals to magnetic audio signals corresponding to the audio content, a portion of which are coupled to a magnetic tape head (not shown) within thecassette tape player4. The audio content can then be amplified and reproduced by the existing circuitry and components (not shown) of thecassette tape player4. The user can therefore reproduceWLAN12 audio content from any of the aforementioned WLAN compliant devices through thecassette tape player4.

In a particular embodiment, theNIC2 includes anexternal microphone6, which is connected via a cable to theNIC enclosure2. In operation, thismicrophone6 cable passes outside of thecassette player4 tape opening. A typical use of thewired microphone6 is to provide the mouth interface in a cellular telephone hands-free mode of operation. The loudspeakers (not shown) of thecassette tape player4 provides the ear interface. TheNIC2 converts the analog ear and mouth signals into the radio frequency domain and radiates these signals into theWLAN12. Thecellular telephone22 couples these signals from theWLAN12 and then converts them into the radio frequency domain of thecellular network24. Hands free cellular telephone operation is known to those skilled in the art. The advantage of the illustrative embodiment is that the loudspeakers of thecassette tape player4 are utilized instead of requiring a separate amplifier and loudspeaker to accomplish the desired task. This is particularly well suited to the vehicular environment. Themicrophone6 can be clipped to the dashboard of the vehicle, in a position suitable to intercept the spoken voice of the occupants, and the vehicle stereo high-fidelity speakers are used to reproduce the audio received in a telephone conversation.

TheNIC2 in illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 1 also includes an output connector8, which may be an industry standard ⅛″ stereo plug. This connector8 outputs the same audio content that is coupled to the magnetic tape head in thecassette tape player4. This is useful if the user desires to record the audio content into a separate recording device that is not in and of itself WLAN compliant. In this embodiment, the output connector8 is cabled to theNIC2 enclosure, and passes through the cassette tape opening in thecassette tape player4. The illustrative embodiment also includes an auxiliary input jack10, which is also cabled to theNIC enclosure2. The jack may be an industry standard ⅛″ stereo jack. This input10 allows the user to couple an external audio source to the system. For example, the user can connect the headphone output of a CD player, so that the CD audio content can be coupled through to thecassette tape player4 tape head. The auxiliary input is particularly useful for connecting audio content sources that are not otherwise WLAN enabled.

There are situations where a wired interface connector is not desirable. For example, some cassette tape player cassette door openings do not lend themselves to having wires and cables passed through during operation. A specific embodiment of the present invention addresses this issue, among others, by providing a wireless user interface adaptor (“WIA”)14. The WIA offers thesame microphone16,auxiliary input18, andauxiliary output20 as discussed above, but without the need to have wires or cables pass through thecassette tape player4 opening. This accomplished be making the WIA an WLAN compliant device in and of itself. In operation, duplex audio paths are set up through theWLAN12 between theNIC2 and theWIA14. The interface signals can therefore be communicated wirelessly. The WIA will be more fully discussed hereinafter.

Reference is now directed toFIG. 2, which is a diagram of the network interface cassette adapter (“NIC”)2 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. ANIC enclosure2 is designed to conform to the cassette tape form factor. In the illustrative embodiment, the common stereo cassette tape, as currently used in the majority of consumer tape players, is conformed to. However, the scope of the present invention extends to magnetic tape cartridges and cassettes of all types.FIG. 2 illustrates the relative position of themagnetic tape head40 of the cassette tape player (not shown). Also, thecapstan shaft44 andpinch roller42 of the cassette tape player are shown in the playback positions. The cassette tape player alignment pins46 are also illustrated. Those skilled in the art are familiar with the cassette tape form factor, and the playback operation of such machines. When theNIC enclosure2 is inserted into a cassette tape player, amagnetic transducer50 is held in alignment with thetape head40 of the cassette player. The magnetic transducer is a stereo device, comprising two coils that convert analog audio signals to magnetic signals. The magnetic field created by thetransducer50 couples to theplayback head40 in the cassette tape player. The audio signals are coupled from thetransducer50 to thetape head40.Such transducers50 are known to those skilled in the art.

Themagnetic transducer50 is coupled to an audio input andoutput circuit54, which comprises audio signal conditioning and amplification functions useful to match signal levels and impedances amongst the various system components. Such circuitry is known to those skilled in the art. The microphone, auxiliary input, and auxiliary output discussed above are coupled to input andoutput circuit54 bycable74. The input andoutput circuit54 is an analog circuit. Analog audio signals are coupled toprocessor circuitry52. Theprocessor circuitry52 provides several functions in the NIC apparatus. These include analog to digital, and digital to analog conversion of the analog audio signals, and, includes general control of the NIC functions. Theprocessor circuitry52 also provides the WLAN network protocol and signaling control, which will be more fully discussed hereinafter. Ultimately, theprocessor circuitry52 provides duplex base band network signals to and from thetransceiver56. Thetransceiver56 modulates and demodulates the base band network signals to and from an RF carrier signal. The RF signals art coupled toantenna72, which electromagnetically couples to the WLAN, as is understood by those skilled in the art. Theantenna72 is routed about the periphery of theenclosure2, so as to provide good RF coupling, regardless of the type of cassette tape player that theNIC2 is inserted into.

The various circuits within theNIC2, inFIG. 1, is electrically powered by apower supply circuit58, which provides the required voltage and current to operate theNIC2. Aswitch actuator53 is coupled to a switch (not shown) within theNIC2 enclosure. Theactuator53 is positioned for actuation when theNIC enclosure2 is inserted into a cassette tape player. Actuation of the switch couples electrical power from the power supply to the circuitry of theNIC2. In the illustrative embodiment, the actuator engages a reel spindle of the cassette tape player through one of the spindle holes51 of theenclosure2, however, any suitable actuator and engagement technique could be employed. A set ofbatteries62, which are rechargeable batteries in the illustrative embodiment, are disposed within theNIC enclosure2. Thebatteries62 are coupled to thepower supply58 and provide the power reserve to operate theNIC2. Replaceable batteries could also be utilized in another embodiment, in which the user replaces the batteries from time to time. However, in the illustrative embodiment, the motive force of the tape player'scapstan shaft44 is advantageously utilized.

In the illustrative embodiment, a compactelectric generator60 is disposed within theNIC enclosure2. The generator is mechanically coupled to receive rotational force from thecapstan shaft44 of the cassette tape player. Since the cassette tape player is designed to drive a magnetic tape in normal operation, the illustrative embodiment utilizes asmall tape loop70 to couple power. Thetape loop70 is guided between thecapstan shaft44 and thepinch roller42 by a set of spindle pulleys68. When the NIC enclosure is inserted into the cassette tape player, the mechanism of the tape player urges thepinch roller42 against thecapstan shaft44, which thus engages thetape loop70. The rotation of thecapstan shaft44 moves thetape70, which is coupled to a drivenpulley64. The diameters of the drivenpulley64 in conjunction with thecoupling belt66 to thegenerator60 input pulley effectively multiply the rotational speed of the capstan shaft to an angular velocity suitable for driving thegenerator60. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other means exist for multiplying rotational velocity, such as friction wheels, belts and pulleys, gear trains, and so forth. The electric current generated by thegenerator60 is coupled to the power supply. The generated electrical power is used to power theNIC2 circuitry directly, recharge thestorage batteries62, or both. With the availability of generator power, theNIC2 is capable of operating for extended periods of time, without attention from the user. In fact, once inserted into the cassette tape player, theNIC2 can be virtually ignored, effectively turning the conventional cassette tape player into a WLAN enabled device. Installation of the NIC is trivial, even for the unsophisticated user.

Reference is directed toFIG. 3, which is a diagram of a wireless user interface adapter (“WIA”)14 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. TheWIA14 is useful in applications where it is undesirable to route cables to and from the NIC enclosure. TheWIA14 is a stand-alone WLAN enabled input and output device, and thus includes its own processors and transceiver for radio frequency communications through the WLAN. In operation, theWIA14 may be placed on the dashboard of the user's vehicle, which locates itsmicrophone16 relatively close to the user, facilitating operation as a hands free speakerphone. As discussed above, anauxiliary input jack18 andauxiliary output jack20 are present on the exterior of theWIA enclosure14. Apower switch78 is presented on the exterior of theenclosure14. In one embodiment, theWIA14 includes an array ofphotovoltaic cells76 on its top surface. When placed in a sunny location, such as a vehicle dashboard, thephotovoltaic cells76 provide electric current to operate theWIA14 and or recharge its internal batteries (not shown).

Reference is directed toFIG. 4, which is a functional block diagram of a network interface cassette adapter (“NIC”) according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. The NIC interfaces to a cassette tape player via the player'stape head80 and thecapstan shaft84 andpinch roller82. At the WLAN end of the device, the interface is accomplished through anantenna90, which couples electromagnetic energy with the WLAN. The radio frequency signaling necessarily follows the protocol of the coupled WLAN. These signals include audio data and WLAN protocol data. Aradio frequency transceiver88 is coupled to theantenna90. The transceiver modulates and demodulates base band WLAN signals. In the illustrative embodiment both duplex and simplex communications paths are supported, thus, thetransceiver88 is either a duplex device or is multiplexed in time or code space. Anetwork controller96 is coupled to thetransceiver88. The network controller couples digital audio signals from within the NIC and organizes them into and out of base band WLAN signals. Essentially, the network controller provides the protocol layering required for the given WLAN protocol. A digital signal processor is utilized in the illustrative embodiment, however any suitable computer device known to those skilled in the art could be employed for the network controller function.

Thenetwork controller96 is coupled to aprocessor104 and audio input andoutput circuit102. Together, these circuits provide the audio processor functions of the device, as well as the general microcontroller functions employed in typical dedicated control devices. The audio processor function encodes and decodes analog audio signals to and from digital audio signals, as well as managing audio path connections and signal levels. Theprocessor104 may be any suitable computing device know to those skilled in the art, and may even be the same physical device as thenetwork controller96. The distinction between network control and audio processing is primarily functional. The audio processor couples analog audio signals and converts them into the digital domain, while the network controller manages WLAN protocol and overhead functions. The audio input andoutput circuit102 portion of the audio controller includes themicrophone108, theauxiliary input110, and auxiliary output connectors, in embodiments where these items are wired to the NIC. The audio input and output circuit also couples analog audio signals to the electromagnetic coupling means86, which converts these signals to magnetic signals for coupling with thetape head80. All of the audio circuits can be either stereophonic or monaural, simplex or duplex as required for each application.

The functional block diagram inFIG. 4 also illustrates the various power supply functions of the NIC. Thepower supply circuit98 provides the required voltages and currents to the various components within the NIC. Apower switch100 provides the typical on and off function, by controlling coupling of electrical power to components within the NIC. Astorage battery106 is one source of raw electrical power. Agenerator92 is disposed within the NIC, and is another source of raw power. Thegenerator92 is driven, either directly or indirectly, from atape loop94 that couples rotational mechanical energy from thetape player capstan84 andpinch roller82. The generator may either power the NIC through thepower supply98, or be used to recharge thestorage batteries106.

Reference is directed toFIG. 5, which is a functional block diagram of a wireless user interface adapter (“WIA”) according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. The WIA interface to the WLAN is accomplished through anantenna114, which couples electromagnetic energy with the WLAN. The radio frequency signaling necessarily follows the protocol of the coupled WLAN. These signals include audio data and WLAN protocol data. Aradio frequency transceiver116 is coupled to theantenna114. The transceiver modulates and demodulates base band WLAN signals. In the illustrative embodiment both duplex and simplex communications paths are supported, thus, thetransceiver116 is either a duplex device or is multiplexed in time or code space to provide duplex communications capability. Anetwork controller120 is coupled to thetransceiver116. Thenetwork controller120 couples digital audio signals from within the WIA and organizes them into and out of base band WLAN signals. Essentially, thenetwork controller120 provides the protocol layering required for the given WLAN protocol. A digital signal processor is utilized in the illustrative embodiment, however any suitable computer device known to those skilled in the art could be employed for the network controller function.

Thenetwork controller120 is coupled to aprocessor128 and audio input andoutput circuit126. Together, these circuits provide the audio processor function of the device, as well as the general microcontroller functions employed in typical dedicated control devices. The audio processor function encodes and decodes analog audio signals to and from digital audio signals, as well as managing audio path connections, signal levels and so forth. Theprocessor128 may be any suitable computing device know to those skilled in the art, and may even be the same physical device as thenetwork controller120. The distinction between network control and audio processing is primarily functional. The audio processor couples analog audio signals and converts them into the digital domain, while thenetwork controller120 manages WLAN protocol and overhead functions. The audio input andoutput circuit126 portion of the audio controller includes themicrophone132, theauxiliary input134, andauxiliary output136 connectors. All of the audio circuits can be either stereophonic or monaural, simplex or duplex as required for each application.

Power supply management in the WIA is managed by apower supply circuit122, which includes a conventional on-off switch124. Aninternal storage battery130 is provided to power the device. While user replaceable batteries are used in one embodiment, a rechargeable battery is used in the specific embodiment. This enables to the use ofphotovoltaic cells118. The photovoltaic cells can either power the WIA directly or recharge thestorage batteries130, or both. In operation the WIA ofFIG. 5 serves as a wireless interface to the NIC, with communications there between accomplished through WLAN audio connection paths. This is essentially the same communications protocol used between the NIC and the various audio content terminal devices, discussed above.

Reference is directed toFIG. 6, which is a functional diagram of a cassette player to a cellular network Bluetooth connection through a NIC according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. The illustrative embodiment WLAN is implemented as a Bluetooth personal area piconet network. The audio content transfer scenario depicted inFIG. 6 involves half of a telephone call from a third party located somewhere in acellular network146, which is coupled through to acassette player140, via acellular telephone handset144 and aNIC142. The diagram inFIG. 6 is structured as a conventional ISO network architectural model, known to those skilled in the art. At the physical level, the coupling between thecellular network146 and thecellular telephone144 occurs as cellular radio signals between thecellular network146 and thecellular transceiver172. The physical link between thecellular handset144 and theNIC142 occurs through Bluetooth radio signals between the cellularhandset Bluetooth radio178 and theNIC Bluetooth radio164. The physical link between theNIC142 and thecassette tape player140 occurs via magnetic flux coupling between the NIC head interface means158 and the cassettetape player head150. Above the physical layer is the hardware/software interface layers, which include the software to hardware drivers.

TheNIC142 head interface means158 is coupled to the NICBluetooth host controller154 by a Bluetoothhead interface driver156. On the Bluetooth radio link side of theNIC142, theBluetooth link controller162 andBluetooth link manager160 couple to the Bluetooth host controller. This structure is well known to those skilled in the art. TheBluetooth radio164 in theNIC142 communicates with theBluetooth radio178 in thecellular handset144. At the link level, thecorresponding link mangers160 and174 control the Bluetooth session. The cellular handsetBluetooth link controller176 provides the physical to software interface on thecellular handset144 side. TheBluetooth host controller168 in thecellular handset166 couples to the Bluetooth cellular radio driver, which physically couples to thecellular transceiver172. Thus, the audio content is transferred across both the cellular network and the Bluetooth network forming an end-to-end link. The diagram inFIG. 6 is illustrative of a typical audio content link established for one session through the network. Other links, such as the coupling of microphone audio from the NIC to the wireless network, would be accomplished with a similar network session model.

Reference is directed toFIG. 7, which is a functional diagram of acassette player182 to a wireless user interface adapter (“WIA”)186 Bluetooth connection according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. This diagram uses the ISO network model to illustrate an audio content connection from an auxiliary input to theWIA188, played through thecassette tape player182. The physical link between theWIA186 and theactual user connection188 occurs through cables connected by a user, or actual acoustic audio waves coupling to the microphone (not shown). In this scenario, theinput188 is from an external auxiliary audio device, such as a CD player. Bluetooth radio signals between theWIA Bluetooth radio220 and theNIC Bluetooth radio206 for the physical layer between these devices. The physical link between theNIC184 and thecassette tape player182 occurs via magnetic flux coupling between the NIC head interface means200 and the cassettetape player head192. Above the physical layer, is the hardware/software interface layers, which include the software to hardware drivers.

TheNIC184 head interface means200 is coupled to the NICBluetooth host controller196 by a Bluetoothhead interface driver198. On the Bluetooth radio link side of theNIC184, theBluetooth link controller204 andBluetooth link manager202 couple to theBluetooth host controller196. TheBluetooth radio206 in theNIC184 communicates with theBluetooth radio220 in theWIA186. At the link level, thecorresponding link mangers202 and216 control the Bluetooth session. The WIABluetooth link controller218 provides the physical to software interface on theWIA186 side. TheBluetooth host controller210 in theWIA208 couples to the Bluetoothuser interface driver212, which physically couples to theuser interface connectors214. Thus, the audio content is transferred from a physical connection in the WIA, across the Bluetooth network forming an end-to-end link to the cassette tape player.

Reference is directed toFIG. 8, which is a process flow diagram according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. The process illustrated inFIG. 8 involves the operation of the NIC as inserted into a cassette tape player, with subsequent audio content channel requests and prioritization. The process begins atstep230 and proceeds to step232 when the user inserts the NIC into their cassette tape player. This action turns on the power of the NIC, which tests to determine if the cassette player is on. This test can be accomplished in a number of ways, in the illustrative embodiment, the rotating capstan shaft is an indicator that the cassette is both on and in the playback mode of operation. Obviously, the playback mode is required in order to cause audio content to be reproduced through the cassette player. If the cassette player is not ready instep234, flow proceeds to step236 where the user is presented with an indication that the cassette player is not ready. The indication may be visual or audible, such as a light or beep sound, for example. If a communications channel is already open in the network, it is closed atstep236, since reproduction by the cassette player is no longer possible.

Continuing inFIG. 8, if the cassette player is on atstep234, flow proceeds to step238. Atstep238, the NIC initializes an idle state of operation, and establishes itself as a master device in the Bluetooth network. The idle state enables other device to establish communications with the NIC from time to time. Atstep240, the main operating loop of the process is entered, and a test is made to determine if any other network devices have signed in. If another device has signed in, then the new device priority is checked and recorded atstep242. Device priorities are needed to establish resource allocation corresponding to the different priorities. Priorities will be more fully discussed below. On the other hand, atstep240, if no new device has singed in, then flow proceeds to step244, to test whether any device has signed out, or simply stopped communicating through the network. If a device has signed out atstep244, then flow proceeds to step246, where the remaining devices still signed into the network are re-prioritized. On the other hand, atstep244, if no device has signed out, flow proceeds to step248.

Step248 inFIG. 8 is a test to determine if any of the devices currently signed into the network have made a communications request. Such a request occurs when one of the devices is attempting to transfer audio content to another device. Typical examples include an incoming telephone call, tuning in a DBS satellite station, playing a song through the MP3 player, and so forth. If no device has made a communications request atstep248, flow returns in loop fashion to step240, where the aforementioned sing-in and sign-out tests are repeated. On the other hand, atstep248, if a device has made a communications request, then flow continues to step250 to determine if there is an existing channel open. Since the cassette tape player can only reproduce one channel at a time, it is important to determine if the requesting device has a higher or lower priority prior to assigning a new terminal device for audio content reproduction. If there are two contending requests, the present invention uses a priority scheme to arbitrate the contention. Atstep250, if there is a channel already open, then the requesting channel's priority is checked against the current channel. If the new request has an equal or lower priority, the current channel retains the resource and the new channel request is held atstep258, and flow proceeds to step260. On the other hand, if the new channel request has a higher priority atstep252, then the current channel is held atstep254 and the new request is coupled as well. Flow proceeds to step260. To complete the flow fromstep250, if no channel is open, then the new request is assigned a new channel and flow continues to step260.

The priority test and call hold features of the present invention allow the user to enjoy lower priority services yet not miss higher priority services. The technique used is to hold a lower priority resource until the higher priority communications is completed, and then revert to the lower priority communications. The reversion actions begins atstep260 inFIG. 8. If the current communications channel has not been terminated, then flow returns to step240, to repeat the aforementioned sequences, including prioritization of any new requests. On the other hand, atstep260, if a communications channel has been terminated, then a test is made atstep262 to determine if there is a communications request on hold. If not, flow returns to step240. If there is a communications request on hold atstep262, then the channel reverts to the held request atstep264 before the process returns to the main loop.

Reference is directed toFIG. 9, which is a priority table according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrative embodiment, three priority levels are employed. Of course, any number of priorities could be defined. The lowest priority isPriority3, box274, which consists of entertainment only sources of audio content. MP3, Satellite Radio, andTV Audio content280 are set toPriority3. The mid-level priority isPriority2,box272, which consists of Weather Radio, GPS information, andPDA content278. The highest priority level isPriority1,box270, which consists of cellular telephone calls, andInternet Voice communications276. The priority levels may also be user defined. As defined inFIG. 9, cellular telephone communications request would preempt MP3 playback, as so forth.

Thus, the present invention has been described herein with reference to a particular embodiment for a particular application. Those having ordinary skill in the art and access to the present teachings will recognize additional modifications, applications and embodiments within the scope thereof.

It is therefore intended by the appended claims to cover any and all such applications, modifications and embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (26)

1. An apparatus for coupling signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player, and adapted to provide an ear and mouth signal interface for a wireless network enabled cellular telephone, the apparatus comprising:

an enclosure, conformed to the cassette tape form factor, containing;

a transceiver, operable to convert base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network;

a network controller, coupled to communicate the base band signals with said transceiver, and operable to convert digital audio signals to and from the base band signals;

an audio processor, operable to convert the digital audio signals to analog audio signals;

a microphone input coupled to said audio processor, for inputting microphone signals thereto, and wherein said audio processor is operable to convert the microphone signals to digital microphone signals;

a coupling means, operable to convert the analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals, and aligned to couple the magnetic audio signals to the tape head, and wherein

said network controller is operable to convert the digital microphone signals to base band wireless network signals for coupling to, and transmission from, said transceiver and into the wireless network, thereby enable ear and mouth signal communications with the cellular telephone through utilization of said microphone input and the cassette tape player audio playback capabilities;

means for establishing a first streaming audio connection, having a first priority assigned thereto, from the external wireless network device to the tape head;

means for receiving a request for a second streaming audio connection, having a second priority assigned thereto, to the tape head, and

means for preempting said first streaming audio connection if said second priority is higher than said first priority.

2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising:

a power supply disposed within said enclosure and coupled to provide electric power to said transceiver, said network controller, and said audio proccssor.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 2 wherein said power supply further comprises:

a switch positioned for actuation when said enclosure is inserted into the tape player, and wherein

actuation of said switch couples the electrical power.

4. The apparatus of2 wherein the cassette player includes a rotating capstan and a pinch roller, and wherein

said power supply further comprises a generator for producing the electric power, said generator rotatably coupled to the capstan shaft for deriving mechanical power therefrom.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 4 wherein said generator is rotatably coupled to the capstan by a tape engaged between the capstan and the pinch roller.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 4 wherein said generator is rotatably coupled to the capstan by a means for multiplying rotational speed.

7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a microphone coupled to said microphone input.

8. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising an auxiliary audio input coupled to said audio processor for receiving auxiliary audio signals, and wherein

said audio processor is operable to couple the auxiliary audio signals to said coupling means.

9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising an audio output coupled to receive the analog audio signals from said audio processor, thereby enabling the connection thereof to an external device.

10. An apparatus for coupling signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player, and adapted to provide an ear and mouth signal interface for a wireless network enabled cellular telephone, the apparatus comprising:

an enclosure, conformed to the cassette tape form factor, containing;

a transceiver, operable to convert base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network;

a network controller, coupled to communicate the base band signals with said transceiver, and operable to convert digital audio signals to and from the base band signals;

an audio processor, operable to convert the digital audio signals to analog audio signals;

a microphone input coupled to said audio processor, for inputting microphone signals thereto, and wherein said audio processor is operable to convert the microphone signals to digital microphone signals;

a coupling means, operable to convert the analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals, and aligned to couple the magnetic audio signals to the tape head, and wherein

said network controller is operable to convert the digital microphone signals to base band wireless network signals for coupling to, and transmission from, said transceiver and into the wireless network, thereby enable ear and mouth signal communications with the cellular telephone through utilization of said microphone input and the cassette tape player audio playback capabilities;

an interface module for enabling wireless user interface connections with the apparatus, said interface module comprising:

a module housing, which is external to and separate from said enclosure, the module housing containing:

a module transceiver, operable to convert base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network;

a module network controller, coupled to communicate the base band signals with said module transceiver, and operable to convert digital audio signals to and from the base band signals;

a module audio processor, operable to convert the digital audio signals to analog audio signals, and

a module interface for coupling analog audio signals with said module audio processor, and wherein

said module network controller is operable to establish audio connections with said network controller through said module transceiver and said transceiver according to a wireless network protocol.

11. The apparatus ofclaim 10 wherein said interface module comprises a module microphone input for receiving analog microphone signals.

12. The apparatus ofclaim 11, further comprising a module microphone coupled to said module microphone input.

13. The apparatus ofclaim 10 wherein said interface module comprises a module audio output coupled to receive the analog audio signals from said audio processor, thereby enabling the connection thereof to an external device.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 10 further comprising:

a module power supply coupled at provide electric power to said module transceiver, said module network controller, and said module audio processor.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 14, further comprising:

a photo-voltaic cell coupled to said module power supply.

16. A method of reproducing audio signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player, including the provision of ear and mouth telephone signals for a wireless network enabled cellular telephone, comprising the steps of:

converting base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network;

converting digital audio signals to and from said base band signals;

converting said digital audio signals to analog audio signals;

converting said analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals;

coupling said magnetic audio signals to the tape head by inserting an enclosure conformed to the cassette tape form factor into the cassette tape player, thereby enabling the reproduction of audio signals by the cassette tape player;

inputting analog microphone signals;

converting said analog microphone signals to digital microphone signals;

converting said digital microphone signals to base band wireless network signals for coupling to, and transmission within the wireless network;

establishing a first streaming audio connection, having a first priority assigned thereto, from an external wireless network device to the tape head;

receiving a request for a second streaming audio connection, having a second priority assigned thereto, to the tape head, and

preempting said first streaming audio connection if said second priority is higher than said first priority.

17. The method ofclaim 16 wherein said converting steps are accomplished by semiconductor devices that are powered by a power supply disposed within the enclosure.

18. The method ofclaim 17, further comprising the step of:

actuating a switch upon inserting the enclosure into the cassette tape player, thereby coupling the power supply to the semiconductor devices.

19. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the cassette player includes a rotating capstan and a pinch roller, the method further comprising the steps of:

coupling mechanical power from the capstan to the generator, and

generating electric power with the mechanical power.

20. The method ofclaim 19, further comprising the step of:

rotatably coupling to the capstan with a tape engaged between the capstan and the pinch roller.

21. The method ofclaim 19, further comprising the step of:

multiplying rotational speed of the capstan during said coupling mechanical power step.

22. The method ofclaim 16, further comprising the step of:

coupling auxiliary audio signals from an auxiliary audio input prior to said converting said analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals step.

23. The method ofclaim 16, further comprising the step of:

establishing a first streaming audio connection from an external wireless network device to the tape head, thereby enabling acoustic audio reproduction through the cassette tape player.

24. The method ofclaim 23, further comprising the steps of:

establishing a second streaming audio connection from a microphone to the external wireless network device.

25. A method of reproducing audio signals between a wireless network and a tape head in a cassette tape player, comprising the steps of:

converting base band signals for radio frequency communications within the wireless network;

converting digital audio signals to and from said base band signals;

converting said digital audio signals to analog audio signals;

converting said analog audio signals to magnetic audio signals;

coupling said magnetic audio signals to the tape head by inserting an enclosure conformed to the cassette tape form factor into the cassette tape player, thereby enabling the reproduction of audio signals by the cassette tape player;

establishing a first streaming audio connection, having a first priority assigned thereto, from an external wireless network device to the tape head;

receiving a request for a second streaming audio connection, having a second priority assigned thereto, to the tape head, and

preempting said first streaming audio connection if said second priority is higher than said first priority.

26. The method ofclaim 25, further comprising the steps of:

establishing a second streaming audio connection according to said request, and

reverting to said first streaming audio connection when said second streaming audio connection is terminated.

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